Meat & Poultry

Key industry growth drivers

According to industry sources, global meat consumption is expected to increase by 7% by 2023. 70% of growth is expected to come from poultry as rising middle income, population growth, affordable pricing and dietary preferences drive increased consumption specifically in developing countries.

Product trends

Meat manufacturers are working to broaden their product portfolios as the trend towards plant-based protein and meat substitutes gathers pace. Products such as schnitzel, meatless hot dogs, meatless meatballs, chickenless nuggets and meat-free mince are springing up in the market. New innovations in cultured protein, alt-protein and clean-poultry are also gaining strength.

Demand for halal meat, an important feature of life across Muslim communities, is growing rapidly. In the Middle East and North Africa region, nearly all meat is halal by default whereas in Asia Pacific, which also houses a significant Muslim population, demand for halal-certified products is growing.

Processing methods

The meat industry is seeking to establish reassurance on traceability and production techniques that may help to promote confidence in the integrity and origin of its products.

Meat & poultry manufacturers are leveraging technological advancements to create more sustainable supply chains. The introduction of RFID (Radio frequency identification) tags and DNA analysis for breed identification are some of the popular techniques used to track meat cuts along the supply chain.

Robotics and innovative technology, such as sensors to improve feeding regimes and identifying diseases, and drones for breed management, are some of the techniques used by manufacturers to meet the rising demand for lean meat.